Prescriptions to Programming: Navigating the Path from Medicine to Technology

If you’d told me a few years ago that I’d be learning about computers instead of prescriptions I would’ve laughed at myself!! My journey began in the world of biology where I studied cells and life itself where biology taught me how life works and technology showed me something equally powerful that is how we can improve life through innovation, automation, and creativity.

How did it all start?

Okay to begin with, it happened on a Sunday when I decided to attend a Women Techmakers workshop out of pure enthusiasm because a friend of mine was about to give a big talk session and I did not realise it would change my direction entirely. The session was about how to actually build an MVP ie., a Minimum Viable Product. I saw people specially women, building solutions, collaborating on ideas, and using code to solve real world problems and a small spark lit up inside me and also a thought that maybe I too could build something meaningful. It wasn’t just the technology that inspired me but it was the energy of the community and their enthusiasm towards new people trying to learn. That's when I thought maybe the microscope can be replaced by a laptop screen. Since I've a graduate degree in Pharmacy, switching domains was also easier for me, the reason being a saturation in the field of Pharmacy, where you're no longer paid according to the value you bring and end up being a frog of the well!

How did the shift happen?

My transition didn’t happen overnight.

1. I started small with the basics of data and AI.
2. Started watching long YouTube tutorials pausing every few minutes to search for every new term meaning.
3. Also joined online courses, read blogs, and experimented with beginner friendly projects.

At first the world of technology felt really challenging and filled with logic errors and totally new concepts. The feeling of learning something new kept me going. I began to see patterns. Biology and programming weren’t as different as I thought because both are about systems one of living organisms and the other of logical structures. Both require patience, observation, and creativity. That realization gave me a confidence boost.

What were the technical challenges I had to face?

1. Understanding Core Tech Concepts from Scratch: Jumping from biology terms to technical terms like APIs, algorithms or cloud architecture felt like learning an entirely new language.
2. Information Overload: The internet is full of tutorials but knowing what to learn first and what actually matters was confusing at the start.
3. Imposter Syndrome : Surrounded by people who already knew frameworks and data structures, I used to question myself if I belonged in the tech space.
4. Learning to Think Logically, Not Theoretically: In biology, you analyse results, in tech you build solutions basically that shift from studying to creating was challenging.
5. Grasping Tools and Version Control: Tools like UI UX Design, AI tools and other interfaces were intimidating initially but learning and practising helped a lot.
6. Balancing Self Learning with Structure: Without a formal tech curriculum, I had to design my own learning roadmap by mixing online courses, YouTube tutorials, and hands on practice.
7. Building Confidence with Real Projects Moving from tutorial watching to actual project building is tough and it means facing real world problems which I'm still learning to deal with and it's very challenging tbh!!!

How to actually deal with these technical challenges?

1. Start with a structured Learning Paths: Instead of jumping between random tutorials follow structured learning tracks like Google Cloud Skills Boost, Coursera and first of all learn about new AI tools to start with!
2. Learn by Doing and Not Just Watching will help: Apply every new concept immediately in a small project, no matter how basic.
3. Break Down Complex Concepts: Divide big topics (like AI or cloud computing) into smaller parts.
4. Surround yourself with the right Communities: Join local or online groups like GDG, DevFest or WTM can be helpful.
5. Feel free to ask questions, try finding mentors and share your progress no matter how small.

After overcoming these challenges what vision do I have for the Future:

Switching domains is genuinely tough but as I've decided to continue my transition towards technology, I no longer see it as a leap but as an evolution. The previous background gave me empathy, problem solving, and patience and tech is giving me the platform to turn those into impact.

I definitely see myself simply building something or maybe opening a start-up but that could make people’s lives better because I want to be part of that change!

What does the Power of a good Community mean?

What truly accelerated my transition was finding Google’s developer communities GDG (Google Developer Groups), DevFest and Women Techmakers.

These weren’t just events, they were ecosystems of support. I met people who had walked similar paths, mentors who guided me through technical learning, and peers who believed in collaboration over competition. Through these communities I understood that you don’t have to be from tech to belong in tech.

DevFest sessions helped me see how Google technologies like Gemini AI, Firebase and Google Cloud are not just tools for coders but also for creators, innovators and learners like me.

Each event became a stepping stone from listening to talks about AI to having hands on experience I learned that inclusivity isn’t just a principle it’s the power that propels the tech ecosystem forward.

Adding to that as I look forward to DevFest 2025, it feels symbolic, a moment to celebrate the journey that began with one Sunday workshop and led me here. DevFest isn’t just an event, it’s a reminder that transitions aren’t linear they’re layered with courage, community, and curiosity.

I'm very excited to remind you to - Mark your calendars so that we meet soon at the biggest tech fest of the year - DEV FEST NAGPUR 2025 BY GDG!!!